Simply not Ordinary

This week we decided to take a step back in time to a place simply not ordinary but absolutely extraordinary. We ventured way back to the 17th century to a hidden American Tavern in downtown Long Beach. Venturing back to a place that delivered excellent hospitality, was welcoming and inviting for guest of all abilities, food that engulfed your senses and a cocktail and spirits list that captured the old soul you once had all in a time period setting. You may have to leave your horses back at home but your furry little pups, friends and family are welcome to embark on a journey to The Ordinarie.

The date was April 13th 2022 before we stepped into a time capsule Tavern and instantly transported to a time between the 17th-18th century. This day I opted to leave my bright orange wheelchair at home and mosey around for the day. The Tavern was dimly lit to set the tone and transport you back in time. The sound from a live jazz band played in the background . You could still hear the sound of the bartender shaking cocktails and the distant chatter that filled the room as people talked, drank and dined. So many delectable smells tickled at your senses almost as though it was luring you to take a peak at the food passing by. You almost get lost in thought as you looked around the Tavern at the pictures on the wall and your senses stimulated. One could easily forget what Era you were in. Marina would be our server for the evening that would guide us through the menu and take us on a food journey back in time.

We started our evening with a personalized suggestion from both Marina and The Ordinarie. My partner and I split a small plate of the chicken pot pie bites and grilled chicken wings. For my first drink I opted for one of their featured drinks, a Ginny Schumaher and my partner enjoyed a stout from Common Space Brewing. Our food was hot , aesthetically pleasing to the eye and smelled delicious. I spooned out one of the chicken pot pie bites and coated it in the gravy from the bottom of its dish. Light flakey crust and a delicious pot pie filling had me wanting more. This dish truly was unique, flavorful, rich and made for a hearty meal. I have personally never had grilled chicken wings and now that I tasted them I simply can't get them out of my head. The wings were a dry rub with a delicious spicy kick but not over powering. They delivered the perfect balance of crispy skin and juicy meat, I can see why they are a personal favorite for Marina. Our starters paired so well with our drinks that evening and we were only just beginning. My main course consisted of Mac and cheese and grilled asparagus from the starter menu and my partner opted for the French dip sandwich. This was not your mommas Mac n cheese. My Mac n cheese did not lack in the cheese department, was hot and topped off with goldfish crackers for that perfect crunch in each bite. For an extra cost you are able to top your dish off with bacon or short ribs but I chose to nibble off my partners french dip instead . If your like me no meal is complete without a delicious side vegetable and the asparagus exceeded my expectations. Maybe it was the pea mint puree that gave this dish and extra oomph but i couldn't get enough of it. A second personalized recommendation from The Ordinarie definitely knocked our dinner out of the park with their short rib French dip. I have never had such a flavorful French dip, and it wasn't even fatty and plated excellent. Everything was phenomenal from start to finish.

To finish your night out I highly recommend taking time to also enjoy one of their signature cocktails. I was too stuffed to eat dessert so my Pick Me Up cocktail was a great substitute. It was not too sweet and just the perfect amount of bitter, which made for a refreshing end. I also would suggest trying the Widow's Kiss that packs a boozy punch. After such an amazing dinner ending the night with cocktails that yet again satisfied my senses with being aesthetically pleasing, smelled amazing and tasted great was a perfect way to bid farewell until next time.